Recently, KFSN broadcasted a report about water concerns for many residents of Northeast Fresno. Corrosive water has raised issues with lead leaching out of pipes and plumbing fixtures and into the water that residents use in their homes, schools and businesses. KFSN reports that a quarter of the homes tested so far have shown lead levels above the federal standard. One resident interviewed had lead levels almost 10 times the recommended maximum amount and stated that she was told the water was safe, except for pregnant women and children.

Although the main source of lead exposure in children is still believed to be caused by exposure to lead-based paint chips and dusts, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 20% or more of human exposure to lead may come from lead in drinking water. The agency states that lead is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, fixtures and solder. The most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures which can leach significant amounts of lead into the water, especially hot water.

“The amount of lead in drinking water can depend on the water’s acidity, the types and amounts of minerals in the water, how long the water stays in the pipes, the amount of wear in the pipes and its temperature,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager of LA Testing’s Huntington Beach facility. “People concerned about the possible presence of lead or other contaminants in their water can turn to LA Testing for comprehensive water testing. We offer testing for heavy metals, microbial contaminants and other pollutants.”

LA Testing has also sponsored an educational video about lead in drinking water that can be seen at: http://youtu.be/2kvtAcpw1MY.

LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other chemicals. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, NVLAP, CDC ELITE, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including Huntington Beach, San Diego, San Leandro, Sierra Madre and South Pasadena.